In Your Library
Book Prescription
Book Prescription (or Bibliotherapy) is a scheme to help patients with mild to moderate mental health problems.A GP, practice counsellor or Community Mental Health Team will be able to prescribe you a book from a list of self-help books now available in Monmouthshire Libraries. Take the prescription to a local library and collect the book you have been prescribed.
Do I have to be a member of the library?
No. Just take your book prescription to your local library. Visit the Libraries page for details of opening hours.
What if the book isn't available?
We have several copies of each title. Library staff will reserve a copy and let you know when it is available.
How long can I keep the book?
Your prescription may specify a number of weeks. If not, you can keep the book at least 3 weeks and may be able to renew it. Please ask staff for details.
Is the scheme confidential?
Library staff are professionals and all information is confidential.
What sort of problems can the books help with?
Subjects covered include abuse, anger, anxiety, assertiveness and self-esteem, bereavement, depression, eating disorders, manic depression, obsessions and compulsions and stress. For a full list of titles visit our online library catalogue, click on 'Subject Words' and search under 'Bibliotherapy' .
The scheme has been developed by a partnership of Monmouthshire Libraries and Information Service, Monmouthshire Social and Housing Services, Gwent Healthcare NHS Trust and Monmouthshire Local Health Board.
Book Prescription Wales is being developed across Wales and funded by the Welsh Assembly.
